Three dogs fought with a raccoon Friday on Pleasant Hill Church Road near Chatham County. The State Laboratory of Public Health in Raleigh has confirmed that the raccoon was rabid.

All three dogs were up to date on their rabies vaccinations. They were given booster shots and will need no further intervention.

“Because the owners of these three dogs kept their vaccinations up to date, the pets continue to enjoy life as part of that family,” said Carl Carroll, county environmental health director. “We urge all pet owners to stay current on vaccinations. It is North Carolina law.”

The county Health Department recommends that anyone bitten by any animal:

â–ª Wash the wound with soap and running water for 10 minutes and seek medical attention immediately;

â–ª Write down the location of the animal and a description to provide to animal control. If the animal is someoneÂ’s pet, also get the ownerÂ’s name and address. Give this information to animal control or the health department; and

â–ª Do not try to catch any wild animal.

To date for 2014, 218 rabies cases have been confirmed in North Carolina. Alamance County had eight confirmed cases in 2013 out of 380 statewide.

For more information or questions about rabies control and vaccination requirements, contact the health department’s Environmental Health office at 336-570-6367.